OCT-Guided Phototherapeutic Keratectomy for Corneal Opacity
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new method to improve vision for individuals with corneal opacities, or cloudy spots on the front of their eyes. Using a special machine called OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography), doctors can guide a laser more precisely to remove these cloudy areas. This procedure, known as OCT-guided laser phototherapeutic keratectomy, acts like a GPS for eye surgery, ensuring precise treatment. Individuals with vision problems primarily due to these cloudy spots, rather than other eye issues like cataracts or glaucoma, might be suitable candidates. As an unphased trial, this study provides an opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance treatment precision and outcomes for future patients.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that OCT-guided laser phototherapeutic keratectomy is safe for corneal opacity treatment?
Research has shown that OCT-guided laser treatment for corneal problems is generally safe. This procedure can effectively reduce or remove corneal scars, leading to clearer vision.
OCT-guided methods use imaging to direct the laser, enhancing accuracy. This precision helps protect surrounding tissues from damage. Patients have reported that the treatment is well-tolerated, with no major side effects noted in studies.
Overall, evidence suggests that this method is a safe option for those with corneal clouding.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike the standard treatments for corneal opacity, which often include traditional phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) or corneal transplantation, the OCT-guided phototherapeutic keratectomy uses advanced imaging technology to guide the laser surgery more precisely. This technique allows surgeons to accurately target the affected areas of the cornea, potentially reducing the risk of removing too much tissue and improving visual outcomes. Researchers are excited about this method because it could lead to faster recovery times and fewer complications, offering a more effective and safer alternative for patients with corneal opacity.
What evidence suggests that OCT-guided laser phototherapeutic keratectomy is effective for corneal opacity?
Research has shown that OCT-guided laser treatment, which participants in this trial will receive, can effectively improve vision by treating corneal opacities. This method uses advanced imaging to guide the laser, allowing for more precise removal of scarred tissue. Studies have found that patients who underwent this procedure often experienced better vision and consistent results. Long-term evidence suggests that the benefits of the treatment endure, providing ongoing improvements in vision. These findings support OCT-guided laser treatment as a reliable option for those with cloudy vision due to corneal opacity.13678
Who Is on the Research Team?
David Huang, MD, PhD
Principal Investigator
Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with vision problems due to superficial corneal opacities and irregularities that can be treated with PTK, leaving at least 250 µm of the cornea. It's not suitable for those who can't stay still for OCT imaging, commit to follow-up visits, have deep corneal issues, or other eye conditions like cataracts or glaucoma.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Surgery
OCT is assisting in surgery guidance for phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) to treat corneal opacities
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for improvement in visual acuity and other outcomes post-procedure
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- OCT-guided laser phototherapeutic keratectomy
OCT-guided laser phototherapeutic keratectomy is already approved in United States for the following indications:
- Corneal scars and opacities
- Epithelial membrane dystrophy
- Irregular corneal surfaces due to Salzmann's nodular degeneration or keratoconus nodules
- Recurrent corneal erosions
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Oregon Health and Science University
Lead Sponsor
National Eye Institute (NEI)
Collaborator